In a statement posted on social media, Koçiu said the removal of the flag violated fundamental norms of respect for diplomatic missions and ran counter to the spirit of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

She said the incident was not merely an attack on a state symbol.

“Any act that seeks to target the identity of a people, delegitimize its presence, or incite hostility on ethnic or religious grounds creates fertile ground for intolerance and anti-Semitism – phenomena Europe knows from some of the darkest chapters of its history and which have no place in democratic societies,” Koçiu said.

The Deputy Prime Minister also stressed that Albania is a welcoming country and a reliable partner, with zero tolerance for antisemitism or hate speech.

“This shameful and isolated act runs contrary to our long-standing tradition of harmony, respect and protection of others -principles that have characterized the Albanian people throughout history,” she said.

Koçiu expressed full solidarity with the Embassy of the State of Israel in Albania and reaffirmed Albania’s unwavering commitment to international law, the protection of diplomatic missions, and the promotion of European values of tolerance, respect and coexistence.

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